
These Times
UnHerd political editor Tom McTague and Cambridge professor Helen Thompson team up to investigate the history of today’s politics — and what it means for our future. Each week they will explore the great forces, ideas and events that led us to where we are, whether in Britain, the United States, Europe or beyond. It’s a politics podcast for those who want a deeper, historical understanding of the news, to understand what has really shaped our world and why. We hope you enjoy! Don’t forget to rate, like and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts — and, of course, to get in touch with all your questions and comments so we can respond in future episodes. Email us at thesetimes@unherd.com or tweet us at @thesetimespod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Jun 27, 2024 • 29min
Apocalypse in Toryland
Exploring the changing political landscape in Conservative strongholds, the podcast discusses potential Tory wipeout in their own backyard, challenges faced by the party in affluent vs. working-class areas, and the impact of leadership issues on voter behavior.

Jun 25, 2024 • 1h 2min
France Enters Its Summer of Crisis
In this week's episode, Tom and Helen discuss the political crisis in France after Macron's call for snap elections. They cover the rise of the Le Pen party, fiscal challenges, historical comparisons, and potential resignation scenarios. The impact on Europe and the need for unity in the EU are also analyzed.

Jun 20, 2024 • 32min
Has the SNP Blown it?
Exploring challenges faced by the SNP in achieving independence in Scotland, including debates on depopulation and energy production. The podcast takes listeners on a journey through key regions like the Outer Hebrides, shedding light on the political landscape and frustrations in Scottish politics.

Jun 18, 2024 • 59min
When Scotland Votes
Exploring Scotland's political landscape post-Brexit, the rise of the SNP and challenges faced by Labour and Conservatives. Historical parallels between Margaret Thatcher and SNP, pandemic's impact on Scottish politics, and contrasting policies in Scotland and England during the pandemic. Reflections on conservative power in regions, the challenge of saving the Union in Scotland, and growing unpopularity of Boris Johnson.

Jun 13, 2024 • 28min
London's Dissident Left
Exploring London's dissident left movement, the podcast dives into the controversy surrounding Pfizer-Shahine and the Labour Party's candidate selection process. It delves into Labour politics, therapy challenges, and the radical thought in Stoke Newington. The episode also highlights the political landscape in London, discussing the challenges faced by the Labour Party and the shift towards the middle class.

Jun 11, 2024 • 55min
Europe's France Shock
The podcast discusses the shocking European election results, Macron's call for snap elections in France, the rise of right-wing parties across Europe, potential coalition formations, and the implications of recent events on the future of Europe.

Jun 6, 2024 • 23min
Nigel's Rebel Army: These Times Election Special
Journalist Tom McTague explores Nigel Farage's rebel army in Great Yarmouth, discussing immigration, fishing, post-Brexit neglect, labor standards, and Farage's campaign strategies. Emotions of betrayal, frustration, and desires for change in the political landscape are highlighted.

Jun 4, 2024 • 59min
Can Biden Bring Peace to the Middle East?
Discussions include the aftermath of Joe Biden's peace proposal on Gaza, the reshaping of the Democratic Party's strategy, Biden's approval ratings amidst Middle-East conflict, repercussions of the International Criminal Court's condemnation on global politics, and future scenarios for financial support in the Middle-East.

May 28, 2024 • 55min
Sunak Jumps
Discussing Rishi Sunak's surprise snap election, shifts in UK politics post-referendums, Conservative Party's challenges, party struggles amidst leadership changes, policy reversals, global crises impact, and Middle East repercussions on elections.

May 21, 2024 • 56min
Biden’s Car War With China
Exploring the impact of Biden's new tariffs on Chinese electric cars and the wider implications on the global economy. The podcast discusses the protectionist strategy of the US and the importance of the energy transition in industries like automobiles and solar panels. It also delves into the rapid ascendancy of a Chinese car manufacturer in the global automotive landscape and China's strategic moves in the European electric vehicle market.
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